She was the daughter of the late Leon and Lenna Allen Smith and the widow of Clyde Murphy. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Leon Smith Jr. She was a retired school teacher and was a member of Long Memorial United Methodist Church.

Surviving: her son, James Smith Murphy (Theresa) of Franklinton; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to Long Memorial United Methodist Church, Endowment Fund, P. O. Box 310, Roxboro, NC